Logic 6 Unveiled at Winter NAMM 2003
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(Click for a close-up) |
January 17, 2003Emagic has announced version 6 of the
Logic Series. This update provides a new level
of processor efficiency and extensive enhancements
to the Arrange window that
offers more editing and mixing power than
ever before. In addition, Logic 6 debuts two
new setup and file management solutions --
the Setup Assistant and the Project Manager.
Users will also benefit from an improved feature
set for film scoring, a newly-developed
superior sounding EQ and MP3 import/export
functionality. Further optimization of the
automation system round out this
update.
Intelligent CPU Resource Management
The Arrange window of Logic 6 now features a
new "Freeze" button on all audio and audio
instrument tracks. The basic concept behind
this feature is to maximize the CPU resources
available to Logic. "Freezing" CPU-demanding
tracks, such as tracks using complex software
instruments and effect plug-ins, reduces their
CPU-load down to the very minimal demand of
an unprocessed stereo audio track -- thus
freeing-up potentially very large amounts of
CPU-power which can be used for other purposes.
This also allows the playback of Logic
songs created on faster machines which
would normally overload a slower machine's
CPU processing capabilities. All users will
benefit from this feature, regardless of the
computer being used -- put simply -- more
plug-ins, more audio instruments and more
tracks can be used simultaneously. Tracks can
be unfreezed at any time for further editing.
Another attractive feature in Logic 6 is the
Offline Bounce. This feature allows users to
bounce faster than real-time or to bounce
songs that would otherwise cause system
overloads.
Grouping
Each channel in Logic can now be assigned to
one of 32 groups. Each group can be a mix
group, an edit group, or both. Channels can be
assigned to multiple groups. Naturally, this
feature improves Logic's fundamental automation
engine while at the same time accelerates
workflow and affords users improved live editing
possibilities. Such as, improved vocal editing,
assigning level meters to a group, or muting
drum sets.
Mixing in the Arrange window
The new Arrange Channel Strip allows the user
to perform on-the-spot changes to the mix
while editing in the Arrange window. Selection
of a track in the Arrange window will display
the corresponding mixer channel in the
parameter section of the Arrange window. This
added functionality reduces the need to switch
between Logic's mixer and Arrange windows.
Smooth Video Synchronization
The new Video Thumbnail track displays a film
as single frames, aligned horizontally in the
Arrange Window. The number of thumbnails
displayed is dependent on the current zoom
level. In order to view the QuickTime video on a
standard TV or video monitor, Version 6.0 now
allows the output of a DV-formatted QuickTime
movie via FireWire. This allows the connection
of a standard DV camera or FireWire conversion
box to Logic.
Intelligent Project Manager
Users can now directly activate the new and
unique Project Manager from the Arrange window.
The Project Manager consolidates all
media files on local volumes by recognizing
the dependencies between audio files, sampler
instruments, settings and movies. The
Project Manager is extremely flexible: users
can rename files, add or edit comments and
change references to one, or multiple song
files. All media files can be saved in a new
"project" file format, making archiving and
transport of projects created in Logic both efficient
and easy. Extensive search facilities further
enhance the usefulness of this tool.
Sample Accurate Display
in the Arrange window
It is now possible to zoom into the waveform
display of an audio region at sample-level resolution
-- while in the Arrange window. Further
to this, DSP functions that were previously
limited to the Sample Editor window are now
accessible in the Arrange window.
Several Enhancements in the Arrange window
With Logic 6 a new Arrange Tool is introduced:
the Marquee Tool. The Marquee Tool allows
region and sequence-independent selection
and editing -- i.e. move, copy, delete, cut,
mute, etc. Time Stretching directly in the
Arrange window is now possible with Logic 6:
the length of an audio file or a loop can now be
quickly adapted to the chosen bar. Improved
Overview and Track management is now possible
in the Arrange window with "Hide Track".
Hide Track does not affect playback. Last not
least Logic 6 features new and user-definable
Arrange window Icons.
New Track EQ
Logic 6 features the intuitive new Track EQ.
This EQ will set new standards for ease-of-use
and sonic quality. It features 8 bands with
fixed modes: a highpass filter, a low shelving
EQ, four parametric EQ bands, a high shelving
EQ and a lowpass filter. All bands are fully
parametric. Each channel EQ has an optional
"high resolution analyzer" graphic display
mode.
The Setup Assistant (OS X only)
Starting with Logic Made Quick & Easy
The Setup Assistant is an unique tool that
guides users step-by-step -- even the extreme
novice -- through the process of setting up
and configuring Logic. In a simple and interactive
Q & A session users learn how to easily
create preferences, configure key settings
and create their first template song in Logic.
Improved Time Machine
In Logic 6, the Time Machine now features a
new algorithm that provides enhanced sound
quality and more accurate time stretching
and pitch shifting.
Support of More Audio Formats (OS X only)
Logic 6 can now import and export MP3 files.
In addition, QuickTime audio formats are supported
for both import and export. This
includes: AAC, Qdesign Music 2, Qualcomm
PureVoice, Law, Alaw and IMA formats.
Quick Automation Access
The newly integrated One Fader Automation
facility allows the selected automation parameter
to be controlled by any controller --
e.g. a Mod Wheel.
Expanded Control Surface Support
Logic 6 can now be controlled by the following
third-party hardware controller units: Motormix
by CM Automation, SAC-2k and SAC 2.2 by
RadikalTechnologies, HUI and Baby HUI by
Mackie, DM2000 and 02R96 by Yamaha.
These hardware controllers can be used in
combination with each other -- or as part of an
expandable Logic Control and Logic Control XT
system -- In this manner customers can build
hardware control systems precisely tailored
to their needs. This offers unmatched Control
Surface flexibility.
Availability
Logic 6 will be available for Mac OS 9.x and
Mac OS X. International delivery will start in
the middle of February 2003. For more information, visit their web site at www.emagic.de. | 
